Passing through Mangalore International Airport? A layover in Mangalore is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 105 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave IXE:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for India. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Mangalore takes about 105 minutes by Taxi / Local Bus. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is INR. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Transport from Mangalore International Airport to Downtown
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi / Local Bus | ~105 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~125 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi / Local Bus is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Mangalore, budget roughly $20 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $5 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at IXE may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Mangalore’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Mangalore, here are two things worth checking out:
Kadri Manjunath Temple is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Respectful visitors are generally welcome for a quick look.
Panambur Beach is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside IXE, you can spend time at Port Lounge or try Airport Retail & Souvenirs. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Mangalore Layover
- In the city: Machali and Janatha Deluxe are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Mangalore.
- At the airport: Cafe Coffee Day and Mangalore Bites will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Resting at the Airport
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at IXE.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Staying Connected
WiFi at IXE should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in India and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Mangalore with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Mangalore may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.